Affordable Luxury: Children’s Portraits Are The New Status Symbol

March 23, 2009 - PRLog -- Boston Artist, Melody Phaneuf is one of three portrait artists showcased in Boston Home’s article, Different Strokes. Each artist created their interpretation of two brothers, children of senior editor of Boston Home Magazine, Julie Suratt. Phaneuf is delighted at the new trend. “Traditionally, portraits have been created to mark a moment in time and create family heirlooms, but I love that people are now using them as conversation pieces for at-home events,” says Phaneuf.

Phaneuf studied with well-known portrait painter, Robert Cormier at Fenway Studios. She was especially enthralled with his pastel technique. “Pastels are pigment in solid form. They can be used on pastel paper and don’t need drying time, so can be completed expeditiously, which is more cost effective than commissioning an oil painting. Artfully handled, pastel portraits are every bit as commanding as oils,” says the artist.  Phaneuf’s pastel portraits begin at $750; she also works with clients to design a manageable payment plan.

“I commissioned Melody to create a pastel portrait of my sweet nephew Domenic,” says Back Bay resident, Lynda McNally. “She not only captured his beautiful image but was able to incorporate his magnetic smile, and the lively, sparkling eyes with which he was blessed—so much so, when looking at the portrait, we would believe we could hear his wonderful giggle!”

Melody Phaneuf has exhibited at Galerie Herouet in Paris, The National Arts Club in New York City, and with Art du Monde, a traveling exposition in Japan. Phaneuf’s paintings are regularly displayed at the Guild of Boston Artists, 162 Newbury Street, in Boston. She paints at historic Fenway Studios, Boston, MA.

A sampling of pastel portraits by Melody Phaneuf can be seen at http://www.slideshare.net/MelodyTheArtist/slideshows. For more information please contact Melody Phaneuf at (617) 236 4322 or e-mail: melody@MelodyTheArtist.com



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Melody Phaneuf Paintings features the work of Boston Artist, Melody Phaneuf. Phaneuf has exhibited at Galerie Herouet in Paris, The National Arts Club in New York City, and with Art du Monde, a traveling exposition in Japan.